Kukla's Korner Hockey

There is a distinct possibility that Nik Lidstrom is playing his last game in the NHL.

The gallant, classy 40-year-old captain and his Red Wings face elimination Thursday night at the hands of the San Jose Sharks, who lead their best-of-seven Western Conference semifinal three games to none.

I actually think the chances of him playing another year are better if they lose tonight than if they somehow claw back into this series. Not because I think he needs to end it on a higher note (he has Norris trophies and Cup rings coming out his ears…), but because I think a longer offseason will allow him to recharge his batteries.

He (and the rest of this roster), no matter what they might say, need a rest. They need a longer summer than they’ve had the last three off-seasons. They need a summer that doesn’t involve jet-setting all over the globe listening to people talk about how great they are, or second-guessing their previous season’s performance, or getting blown up over hype of starting the season in Europe.

You mean like when he won the Norris for like the sixth time and they misspelled his name on the back of the jersey that appeared on stage?

Posted by YzermanZetterberg

Just wanted to highlight this again because we couldn’t believe something like this happened. And Gary addressing Gordie Howe as “Gordy” annoyed me. That’s Mr. Howe to you dipfuch. Todd Mclellan got it right.

Anyway, King Lidas will do what he damn well pleases. As I suggested elsewhere, I can imagine an Olympic tournament with Stevie Y as GM of Canada and King Lidas as GM of Sweden.

He left out the “C” in Nick? No, can’t be, you’re only suppose to leave out the “C” for…. oh nevermind. wink

Wondered how long it would be before somebody referenced that. You Pen fans almost let me down.

I’ve been seeing him look more and more mortal this season and just have this feeling that he’s going to call it a career. Granted, I don’t know him at all beyond what I can glean from interviews, but the man seems to strive for perfection. After years of achieving it, he’s smart enough to recognize when he is no longer capable of it.

I hope I’m wrong and he stays for a couple more years. Maybe he wont win another Norris, but he will remain a top pair D-man.